At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the vision and delivery of a future-oriented power system with innovative projects.
- Company: SONI, Northern Ireland’s Transmission System Operator, focused on a reliable electricity supply.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, private medical cover, flexible working, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Inclusive culture promoting diversity and clear career progression pathways.
- Why this job: Drive transformation in the energy sector and make a real impact on sustainability.
- Qualifications: Senior management experience in energy or infrastructure, with strong leadership and communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 75000 - 90000 £ per year.
Reporting to the Chief Executive. Permanent position based in Belfast, with occasional travel.
About SONI
SONI is Northern Ireland’s Transmission System Operator, responsible for the operation, maintenance, and development of the high‑voltage transmission grid and for ensuring a safe, reliable, and resilient electricity supply.
Role Profile
The Director of Networks & Innovation will lead the visioning, planning and delivery of a future‑orientated power system, including large‑scale infrastructure projects, advanced digital solutions, innovative market structures and new technology adoption.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the programme of visioning and delivery of a future power system, developing scenarios, options and pathways to realise SONI’s strategic objectives.
- Manage the Network, Digital Innovation, Future Markets and Future Power Systems teams, ensuring effective planning, execution and governance of large‑scale programmes.
- Drive the transformation of the high‑voltage transmission grid through project ownership, feasibility, planning, construction handover and integration of new generation, storage and demand investments.
- Collaborate with stakeholders (Utility Regulator, NIE Networks, government, planning authorities, communities) to secure funding, approvals and support line‑of‑business development.
- Lead the adoption and implementation of next‑generation system services, market mechanisms and operational policy to support a 100% renewable electricity mix.
- Oversee the development of long‑term planning tools (Tomorrow Energy Scenarios, Transmission Development Plan, Forecast Statement) and support future TSO‑DSO arrangements.
- Set a strategic direction for digital transformation, ensuring the delivery of robust IT platforms, data and intelligence for system operators.
- Identify research and partnership opportunities with academic and industry bodies to accelerate innovation toward a net zero target.
- Provide strategic thought leadership to senior management, the Board and the wider organisation, driving performance, culture and organisational growth.
- Ensure compliance with legal and regulatory obligations, safeguarding system resilience and maintaining an inclusive high‑performance workforce.
- Present performance reports and strategic updates to the Board, the Chief Executive and key stakeholders.
Essential Requirements
- Senior management experience in the energy, utilities or infrastructure sector, reporting to executive or board level.
- Proven track record in delivering large physical infrastructure programmes and managing statutory planning and consenting processes.
- Strong leadership, organisational, planning and process‑management skills with the ability to inspire and develop multidisciplinary teams.
- Detailed knowledge of system services, renewable integration and market operation for a dependable power system.
- Exceptional communication, stakeholder influence and board‑level presentation skills.
- A change‑oriented mindset and a proven ability to challenge the status quo while effectively managing change.
- Experience in influencing strategy and translating concepts into actionable operational solutions.
- Understanding of regulatory frameworks and government policy related to energy and sustainability.
Desirable Requirements
- Experience working in the electricity industry and within a regulatory business model.
Remuneration and Benefits
- Competitive salary plus performance‑related bonus.
- Private medical cover and pension matching.
- Flexible working arrangements, including hybrid options.
- Expanded holidays, maternity and paternity leave and wellbeing days.
- Salary sacrifice schemes (cycle‑to‑work, EV scheme), free parking, onsite EV charging and complimentary lunch.
- Professional development opportunities and clear career progression pathways.
- Inclusive culture valuing diversity and flexible working.
Equal Opportunity
SONI is proud to be an equal‑opportunity employer. We are committed to an inclusive workplace where diverse perspectives are valued and everyone can thrive. As a STEM organisation, we actively promote gender diversity across our engineering and technology roles. All candidates must have a legal right to work in the UK. SONI does not provide sponsorship for this vacancy. We have a duty to prevent illegal working and will require proof of eligibility.
Director of Networks & Innovation in Antrim employer: SONI - System Operator for Northern Ireland
SONI is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Belfast where innovation meets sustainability. With a strong commitment to employee growth, SONI provides competitive salaries, flexible working arrangements, and extensive professional development opportunities, all while fostering an inclusive culture that values diversity. Join us in leading the transformation of Northern Ireland's energy landscape and be part of a team dedicated to achieving a net zero future.
Contact Details:
SONI - System Operator for Northern Ireland Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Networks & Innovation in Antrim
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with industry professionals, attend events, and join relevant groups. The more people you know, the better your chances of landing that Director of Networks & Innovation role.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your expertise! Prepare to discuss your experience in delivering large infrastructure projects and managing teams. Be ready to share specific examples that highlight your leadership skills and innovative thinking.
✨Tip Number 3
Research SONI thoroughly! Understand their vision for a future power system and be prepared to discuss how your background aligns with their strategic objectives. This will show them you're genuinely interested and invested in their mission.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team at SONI and contributing to their exciting projects.
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Networks & Innovation in Antrim
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to reflect the specific skills and experiences that align with the Director of Networks & Innovation role. Highlight your leadership experience in the energy sector and any relevant projects you've managed.
Showcase Your Vision:In your application, don’t just list your past roles; share your vision for the future of power systems. Discuss how you can contribute to SONI’s strategic objectives and your ideas for innovative solutions in the energy landscape.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. Use straightforward language to convey your achievements and qualifications, making it easy for us to see why you’re a great fit for the role.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. This ensures that your application goes directly to the right team and helps us streamline the process. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining SONI!
How to prepare for a job interview at SONI - System Operator for Northern Ireland
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you have a solid understanding of SONI's role in the energy sector, especially regarding high-voltage transmission and renewable integration. Brush up on recent developments in digital solutions and market structures to show you're not just familiar but genuinely interested.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your senior management experience and how you've successfully led multidisciplinary teams. Think about specific projects where you drove transformation or innovation, and be ready to discuss the outcomes and lessons learned.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Since collaboration is key in this role, come prepared with insights on how you've effectively worked with various stakeholders in the past. Be ready to discuss how you would approach securing funding and approvals for large-scale projects.
✨Communicate Clearly
Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently, especially when discussing complex topics like regulatory frameworks and operational policies. Remember, you'll need to present to the Board and other key stakeholders, so clarity and confidence are crucial.
